Abstract

This contribution complements Forest Ecosystems' Thematic Series on "Forest Observational Studies". We provide essential clarification regarding the definition and purpose of long-term field studies, review some of the extensive literature and discuss different approaches to collecting field data. We also describe two newly established forest observational networks that serve to illustrate the scope and diversity of forest field studies. The first is a large-scale network of forest observational studies in prominent natural forest ecosystems in China. The second example demonstrates observational studies in mixed and uneven-aged pine-oak forests which are selectively managed by local communities in Mexico. We summarize the potential for analysing and modeling forest ecosystems within interdisciplinary projects and provide argumentation in favour of long-term institutional commitment to maintaining forest observational field studies.

Details

Title
Forest observational studies-an essential infrastructure for sustainable use of natural resources
Author
Zhao, Xiuhai; Corral-rivas, Javier; Zhang, Chunyu; Temesgen, Hailemariam; Gadow, Klaus V
Pages
1-10
Publication year
2014
Publication date
Apr 2014
Publisher
Elsevier Limited
ISSN
20956355
e-ISSN
21975620
Source type
Scholarly Journal
Language of publication
English
ProQuest document ID
1679370864
Copyright
The Author(s) 2014